List gauges improvement

All year long in this semimonthly column, I've been giving ideas, encouragement and action steps to help you be better organized.

As I continue to recap the columns, I invite you to use this list to see how much you've put into action.

1. In May, I wrote about Hurry Sickness as seen in the focus on completing tasks as soon as possible, neglecting the enjoyment of what one is doing. If you diagnosed yourself as having this malady, have you begun to slow down?

2. I also gave practical steps to help you break the frenetic pace of life. Are you leaving a margin of peace between appointments and tasks? Are you consciously enjoying the process and not just the end result?

3. In June, I shared my observation about how the way we look affects how much we get done. Have you been getting dressed and groomed early in the day? Have you noticed how much more productive you are?

4. I also encouraged you to pay prompt attention to problems, as handling matters before they become urgent will prevent crises later. If there is maintenance to be done in your home, work or life, have you made it a priority?

5. In July, I gave you a four-step approach to overcoming those dreaded tasks you might have been avoiding. By asking yourself, "What is my next step?" "How hard is it?" "How long will it take?" and "What is the roadblock?" have you been pushing through those tasks one by one?

6. I also encouraged you to observe Simplify Your Life Week. Simplicity brings freedom from things and activities you don't need, use or love. Have you been de-cluttering your life of excess possessions and obligations?

7. In August, I encouraged you to not let your life degenerate into a day-to-day existence lacking purpose and fulfillment. Are you appreciating each new day? Are you spending your time wisely and well? Have you begun to invest more time in meaningful relationships?

8. I also wrote about how our homes are an extension of ourselves and that there should be harmony between our living spaces and our true selves. Have you taken steps to make your home more accurately reflect who you are?

That brings us to the end of the year's second-quarter columns. If you have been acting on what you've been reading, you've no doubt noticed a difference in your home, work and life. Good for you!

See you in two weeks!

"It's About Time," by Ruth Wong, owner of Organization Plus, runs the second and fourth Fridays of each month. Contact her at "It's About Time," care of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, Honolulu 96813; or e-mail orgplushawaii@verizon.net

"It's About Time," by Ruth Wong, owner of Organization Plus, runs the fourth Friday of each month. Contact her at "It's About Time," care of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, Honolulu 96813; or e-mail features@starbulletin.com